WOMAN USED CANNABIS TO RELIEVE PAIN

A WINNERSH woman escaped jail for possession of more than 90 cannabis plants because a doctor's report revealed she used the drug for medical purposes.

Judith Sharpley, of Lydiaville caravan site off Bearwood Path, admitted possession of a large quantity of the drug following a huge police swoop in September last year.

Sentencing the 52-year-old was adjourned on Friday, May 21, while a doctor's report and medical records were gathered, following claims by the defence that Sharpley used the drug to alleviate a very painful and long standing muscle condition.

At Reading Crown Court last Friday Judge Susan Matthews took just over 20 minutes to hand out a six month suspended sentence to Sharpley, following a plea of mitigation from the defence council.

Reed Pearce, defending, said the report by Dr David Buckle of Crockhamwell Road Surgery in Woodley indicated Sharpley suffered "constant pain" and despite the seriousness of the case, should not be sent to jail.

Mr Pearce said: "She's on an awful lot of medication and is on very strong painkillers for persistent pain and weakness in her hand.

"That is the reason for her taking cannabis. It's a muscle relaxant and she quite frankly finds it better than taking these painkillers which cause drowsiness.

"This is a lady that if sent to prison could see her health deteriorate."

Mr Pearce also claimed that Sharpley, who was placed on probation for two years after a drug related conviction in 1994, regretted the incident.

He added: "She wishes she had not got involved in it. A conditional discharge would be suitable in this case."

Judge Matthews said due to extreme circumstances regarding her age, lengthy health problems and domestic situation, a suspended sentence would be the correct punishment in this case.

She said: "Although not of good character this is the only thing against you in 10 years.

"There have been difficulties obtaining a medical report but we have got one now.

"It has been extremely insightful and shown us you have had a long-standing history of upper body problems.

"I understand you used it for pain relief for medical conditions.

"Possession of cannabis on this scale, even for personal use, is a criminal offence.

"However, I am going to suspend that sentence under the extreme circumstances of your case."

Judge Matthews added that Sharpley might be sent to prison if she committed any further crimes during the six months of her suspension.

Sharpley was arrested in September last year after between 90 and 100 six-foot cannabis plants were found at her Winnersh home.